Description: Prereq- uisite(s): SPN 101B or SPN 109B or equivalent. Introduction to Latin American culture and civilization from pre-Columbian times to the present. Emphasis is on the period from postcolonial independence to the present. Readings cover history, art, architecture, lit- eratures, and other aspects of culture and civilization. Provides background for courses on the literature of Latin America. Course is taught in Spanish.